Automation and AI adoption are increasingly driving workforce reductions, with over 10,000 U.S. job cuts linked directly to generative AI in 2025. Entry-level roles—often involving data handling and routine tasks—are disproportionately affected as companies deploy AI solutions to replace junior staff. This trend exacerbates employment challenges for recent graduates, particularly in tech sectors. Industry leaders emphasize the shift towards cost-cutting and selective hiring, underscoring the growing importance of AI fluency in recruitment and retention strategies.